Sherry Mason

The council introduced several ordinances related to amending the borough code, including provisions for water service lines, the structure of the Historic Preservation Advisory Commission, and requirements for fire safety inspections. The meeting included the approval of various routine resolutions covering personnel hiring, construction change orders for the Emergency Operations Center, donation acceptance, property use agreements, and bond returns. Additionally, the council addressed annual liquor license renewals, authorized an executive session to discuss potential litigation, and approved the payment of outstanding bills.

The council meeting addressed several administrative and operational matters. Key items included the appointment of a provisional technical assistant to the construction office, authorization for sanitation reimbursement, and approval of a sidebar agreement with PBA Local No. 175 regarding vacation leave. The council approved multiple change orders for the 2025 Emergency Operations Center renovations, covering fire suppression, rooftop supports, and electrical room modifications. Additionally, the council held a general discussion on a proposed ordinance to eliminate the second alternate position on the Historic Preservation Advisory Commission and scheduled an executive session to discuss potential litigation regarding the Atlantic City Electric/Pepco Battery Energy Storage System.

The board meeting agenda included the approval of bills and bond returns for multiple properties. Under new business and public hearings, the board considered special reasons D variances and bulk variances for a property at 223 Pelham to allow two single-family homes and modifications to floor area ratio, lot area, width, and coverage requirements. A bulk variance request for impervious coverage at 235 6th St., Unit A was also scheduled for review. Additionally, the meeting included the consideration of resolution #2026-02 concerning Pearl Real Estate Services LLC.

The Commission meeting focused on two public hearing applications. The first application involves the demolition of an existing single-family residence and the construction of a new home and detached garage at 130 Norwood Avenue. The second application concerns the addition of a front porch with roof covering and railings at 217 Ocean Street. The Commission deliberations included evaluating project adherence to historic design guidelines, visual compatibility with neighboring properties, and reviewing architectural plans, materials, and property survey documentation.

The meeting featured the swearing-in of a new board member and the discussion of an application for a D-variance and bulk variance for 431 Center Street. The application involves a single-family residence currently under construction that requires variances for floor area ratio, lot area, front and side yard setbacks, and building height. The applicant testified that the requested variances stem from errors made by a previously hired architect and builder regarding zoning calculations and building plans, and that the structure was built in reliance on approved plans. Additionally, the Board discussed the requirement to reconstitute as a seven-member board to vote on the D-variance application.